Jamaican ‘Reach Out Rangers’ to tackle COVID-related mental challenges
Gavin Riley / Our Today
administrator
The Ministry of Health and Wellness assigned its first 30 ‘Reach Out Rangers’ to assist Jamaicans, facing psychosocial challenges, cope with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, speaking at a virtual graduation ceremony on Wednesday (January 20), explained the rangers form part of the ministry’s COVID-19 Mental Health Response Programme—with another 50 personnel to be added in the coming months.
According to Tufton, the programme was developed in response to the “emergent need” for such support, especially among the older population and for students, who’ve mostly remained at home, in efforts to control the contagion.
“All of those represent a way of life that often facilitate mental health challenges,” Tufton argued, adding that there is an increase in mental disorders and depression globally, due to lockdown measures associated with COVID-19.
As a result, the minister said “special arrangements” had to be made to preserve the mental health of those who need the support.
“It is an important step you have made,” he stressed the Jamaica Red Cross-trained personnel.
“The message is simple, reach out, integrate yourselves in the communities, use your training to assess where the issues are, offer a listening ear, give some guidance, make recommendations, and give support where it is necessary,” Minister Tufton continued.
Where it is necessary, the Reach Out Rangers will make referrals of persons who need attention from professionals at health centres.
Tufton reported that response to join the programme has been “overwhelming,” with over 150 persons so far requesting to offer their services. They are undergoing a vetting process.
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